The success and safety of a company largely depends on the quality of its employees. To ensure this, employers often rely on background screening programs to confirm the professional qualifications and personal integrity of potential hires. While background checks typically include verifying educational credentials, criminal records, and employment history, drug testing is often overlooked. We will discuss the significance of adding drug testing to a company's background screening program and the benefits it brings to both the company and its employees.
Ensuring Workplace Safety
One of the primary reasons for implementing drug testing in a background check program is to ensure a safe working environment for all employees. In fact, many states offer a discount on workers compensation insurance to employers that implement a drug-free workplace program. Employees under the influence of drugs may pose significant safety risks, particularly in industries that involve heavy machinery, driving, or other tasks requiring high levels of alertness and physical coordination. Drug abuse can lead to impaired judgment, decreased productivity, and increased risk of workplace accidents. By testing for drug use, employers can identify candidates who may pose a threat to the safety and well-being of others, thereby reducing the likelihood of workplace accidents and injuries.
Enhancing Productivity and Performance
Drug testing can significantly improve workforce productivity and performance. Drug abuse can often lead to decreased productivity due to factors such as absenteeism, lateness, poor decision-making, and decreased concentration. In fact, according to the US Drug Test Center, researchers estimate drug abuse costs American Companies $25.5 billion per year due to lost productivity. By identifying and addressing potential substance abuse problems before hiring, companies can maintain high standards of performance and productivity, thereby contributing to overall business success. Moreover, a drug-free environment can boost employee morale and contribute to a healthier and more engaging workplace culture.
Compliance with Legal Requirements
In some industries, drug testing is mandated by federal or state laws, such as the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations in the United States. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to severe consequences, including hefty fines and potential legal action. By incorporating drug testing in the background check process, companies can demonstrate compliance with applicable laws and avoid penalties.
Reducing Employee Turnover and Associated Costs
Employee turnover is costly, and hiring a candidate with a history of drug abuse may increase the likelihood of turnover due to poor job performance or termination. By testing for drug use during the hiring process, employers can filter out high-risk candidates, leading to lower employee turnover rates and saving on costs associated with recruitment, training, and lost productivity.
Reducing Legal Liability Costs
Companies can reduce potential legal liabilities through drug screening. Employees under the influence of drugs can create situations that expose the company to legal risks. For example, if an employee causes an accident while under the influence of drugs, the company may be held liable, leading to costly lawsuits and damage to the company's reputation. Drug testing helps prevent such scenarios, offering a proactive measure to mitigate legal risks.
Incorporating drug testing into a company's background screening program is essential for ensuring workplace safety, enhancing productivity, complying with legal requirements, reducing employee turnover, and reducing legal liability and costs. The long-term benefits to the company and its employees make it a worthwhile investment. By fostering a drug-free work environment, companies can thrive and prosper in today's competitive business landscape.
Use a Drug Testing Company That Can Provide a Comprehensive, Convenient and Cost-Effective Solution
Working with a screening company such as MyHRScreens can provide you with an efficient and cost-effective drug testing program. Whether you need DOT testing, Non-DOT testing or would like to include/exclude THC, MyHRScreens can offer a wide variety of drug testing options that can be tailored to meet your needs. We can also provide random programs as well as kits for after hours testing.
In addition to the wide variety of drug testing options, MyHRScreens’ robust background screening platform enables you to order and schedule drug tests online at our more than 4,000 collection sites nationwide when ordering the background check. Thus, creating a simple, efficient way of managing the drug testing process for your company.
For more detailed questions about employee screening, let MyHRScreens help. Contact klewis@myhrscreens.com today to ask questions or setup an appointment today!